Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Achievement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "achievement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
成果
せいか (seika)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
手柄
てがら (tegara)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "achievement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 成果 and 手柄.
In Japanese, 成果 (せいか (seika)) is typically associated with "achievement, result, outcome" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often refers to positive results, accomplishments, or research findings. Used to describe the positive results of effort or work..
On the other hand, 手柄 (てがら (tegara)) maps to "achievement, exploit, distinguished service" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 素晴らしい功績や業績、特に他人や組織に貢献した際の実績を指します。賞賛に値する行為。. A literal translation of "achievement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "成果"
このプロジェクトの成果を発表します。
I will announce the results of this project.
Bilingual Context for "手柄"
彼は今回のプロジェクトで大きな手柄を立てた。
He achieved a great accomplishment in this project.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このプロジェクトの ＿＿＿ を発表します。" (Meaning: "I will announce the results of this project.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "成果" fits here because it means "achievement, result, outcome" in the context of: "I will announce the results of this project.". "手柄" represents "achievement, exploit, distinguished service".